Power Out? What to Cook, What to Use, and What to Do Next

The extensive power outages in Spain and Portugal reminded us of something everyone seems to forget…

That even the most basic conveniences we take for granted can be taken away from us in a blink.

Millions of people were left with no electricity for over 12 hours.

When the lights go dark, it's amazing how quickly our modern routines fall apart. That simmering pot on the electric stove? Suddenly cold. The meal plan that relied on your microwave? Not happening. Your perfectly stocked freezer? Now racing against a temperature clock.

Now that we’ve officially entered storm season, knowing how to ensure your family’s nutrition, comfort, and safety doesn’t get derailed is a skill every one of us should possess.

With some practical planning and a few simple techniques, you can maintain a sense of normalcy even when the grid lets you down.

Let's walk through exactly what to do when the power goes out—from the first moments to your cooking game plan and beyond.

First 15 Minutes: The Initial Response

The moment your home goes dark, take these immediate steps:

• Check your circuit breaker first—sometimes what seems like an outage is just a tripped breaker.
• Call your utility company to report the outage and get an estimated restoration time. This helps you determine whether you're dealing with a short inconvenience or settling in for the long haul. (Even if they don’t pick up, that could be critical info!)
• Unplug sensitive electronics to protect them from power surges when electricity returns.
• Gather your lighting tools—flashlights, headlamps, and battery-powered lanterns should be in your designated Power Out Kit.
• Check in with vulnerable family members who might need immediate assistance, especially those who rely on electric medical devices.

Once you've handled these basics, it's time to turn your attention to one of the most pressing concerns during any outage: feeding your family.

Your No-Power Kitchen Strategy

That moment when you open the refrigerator door even though you know the light won't be on? We’ve all been there. The good news is that food isn't instantly spoiled, and with smart prioritizing, little to nothing needs to go to waste.

What Foods to Use First

Create a mental priority list for what to consume in which order:

1. Refrigerated perishables: Dairy, meats, and leftovers should be eaten first. Your refrigerator will maintain safe temperatures for about 4 hours if kept closed.
2. Frozen foods: A full freezer will stay cold for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if half-full) when unopened. As items begin to thaw, cook and eat them rather than letting them go to waste.
3. Shelf-stable options: Save these for later, when refrigerated and frozen foods are no longer safe.

Many neighborhoods have turned extended power outages into impromptu community events. If it’s an extended power outage, every household is bound to have shortages of different items.

Don’t be shy to work with your neighbors! Dare I say, nothing brings the community closer than a good ol’ power outage.

Safe Food Handling During Outages

Keep a food thermometer in your emergency kit. Refrigerated food should be discarded if it exceeds 40°F for more than 2 hours.

When in doubt, throw it out. Food poisoning is the last thing you need during an already challenging situation.

Also, if you have them, use coolers and ice to extend the life of important perishables.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Having multiple ways to prepare food without electricity gives you flexibility and peace of mind. Here are your our top recommendations:

Outdoor Cooking Equipment

1. Gas grill: You can keep an extra propane tank on hand specifically for emergencies.
2. Camp stove: Affordable, and versatile. Store extra fuel canisters in a safe location.
3. Rocket stove: These efficient wood-burning stoves use small twigs and branches as fuel, making them perfect for longer outages.
4. Solar cooker: While slower, these can be remarkably effective on sunny days and require no fuel at all.

Indoor-Safe Options (Use with caution and proper ventilation)

Canned heat: Perfect for warming pre-cooked foods.

Alcohol stoves: Small, portable, and relatively safe for indoor use in well-ventilated areas.

Fondue pots: These often use denatured alcohol or gel fuel and can warm soups or smaller portions.

NEVER use camp stoves, grills, or other outdoor cooking equipment inside your home. The risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is too great.

Power-Out Meal Ideas

One of the most common questions during outages: "What do we actually cook when the power's out?"

Surprisingly, many families develop power outage favorites that become requested meals even when electricity is functioning normally. For example, "Shadow Tacos"—warmed tortillas filled with canned black beans, shelf-stable pre-cooked rice packets, and topped with crunchy veggies and hot sauce—have become a beloved tradition in many households. Simple yet satisfying.

Here are some meal ideas to get you started:

No-Cook Meals (When cooking isn't practical)

• Protein-packed wraps: Tortillas with peanut butter, canned tuna or chicken, and shelf-stable vegetables.
• Overnight oats: Prepare these before an anticipated outage by mixing oats with shelf-stable milk alternatives and dried fruits.
• Trail mix meals: Combine nuts, dried fruits, chocolate chips, and cereal for a no-cook energy boost.
• Bean salads: Drain and rinse canned beans, add olive oil, vinegar, and canned vegetables.

Simple Heat-Only Meals (For camp stoves or other alternatives)

• One-pot pasta: Pre-measure dry pasta and shelf-stable sauce ingredients in zip-top bags. Just add water and heat.
• Soup packets enhanced with canned chicken, vegetables, or beans for a hearty meal.
• Foil packet meals: Combine quick-cooking ingredients like pre-cooked rice, canned beans, and vegetables on foil for easy camp stove cooking.

The beauty of these meals isn't just their simplicity—it's that they don't feel like deprivation. They feel like adventure. And sometimes, reframing a challenge as an adventure is all it takes to transform stress into something memorable.

Comfort Food Ideas (Because morale matters)

• S'mores: If using outdoor cooking methods, this familiar treat can lift spirits. Kids love ‘em!
• Hot chocolate: Prepared with shelf-stable milk alternatives and warming spices.
• No-bake cookies: Combine nut butter, honey, oats, and chocolate chips for a sweet morale booster.

Powering What Matters Most

For families with medical devices, communication needs, or essential electronics, a reliable power backup becomes a necessity. This is where a quality portable power station makes all the difference.

The Grid Doctor 300 Solar Generator System has become a popular choice for practical planners. This compact powerhouse offers a remarkable balance of portability and capability, providing crucial power for devices like:

• CPAP machines
• Smartphones
• Mini refrigerators
• Laptops
• Essential lighting

The Power of Preparation

The difference between a power outage being a frightening emergency or a manageable inconvenience comes down to preparation and mindset. By thinking through your approach now, you're building confidence that will serve you well when the unexpected happens.

Remember, being prepared isn't about anxiety or fear—it's about creating peace of mind. It's about knowing that even when the grid fails, your family's comfort and security don't have to.

Take some time this week to assess your current power outage preparedness. Which alternative cooking methods do you already have? What shelf-stable foods are in your pantry right now?

Small steps today mean big confidence tomorrow.